2013 Automotive News Europe Eurostars

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The executives chosen as 2013 Eurostars achieved success by exceeding expectations. Sergio Marchionne was the driving force behind the marriage of Fiat and Chrysler, which has proved to be a financial lifesaver for the Italian side of the relationship. Chrysler’s U.S. success has protected Fiat from the worst of Europe’s recession, giving it time to prepare for the region’s forecast rebound. Audi CEO Rupert Stadler has led the brand to new sales and earnings records. BMW purchasing boss Klaus Draeger has solidified the automaker’s place as a company to which suppliers want to offer their most innovative products and ideas. Gestamp CEO Francisco Riberas has used timely acquisitions to nearly triple sales at the Spanish metal-parts supplier while also boosting operating profit. The other 10 Eurostars, who were chosen by the editors of Automotive News Europe, have achieved equally impressive results in the face of challenges. Automotive News Europe and PwC will honor the winners at an awards dinner on Sept. 9 in Frankfurt.

PROJECT LEADER Alain Tranzer

Alain Tranzer is the father of two hot-selling Peugeot models: the 208 hatchback and 2008 crossover. The subcompacts are exceeding sales expectations, which helped PSA to narrow the first-half loss at its auto unit to 510 million euros from 657 million euros a year ago. PSA plans to double production of the 2008 this month. The 208 was Europe’s No. 4-selling car in H1.